X-Factor #101 pg 29 (Duursema pencils, Milgrom ink, DeMatteis story) Havok quits

Havok quits X-Factor!

A monumental page from prime era X-Factor, when I was very early in my comic reading and acquisition. This issue, “AFTERLIVES”, deals with the aftermath of the 100th issue in which Multiple Man, Jamie Madrox dies. The pain of this loss ultimately has Havok blaming himself and quitting X-Factor, which is highlighted and seen in this half splash page.

This era of X-Factor was one of my favorites, as this was how I always saw prime X-Factor, even though this was the second generation for the team, that started 30 issues prior to this one in #71. It was around this issue that the team started to dissolve, starting with the death of Madrox and Havok (team leader) quitting. Sad times but really great storytelling.

This is my second piece of Duursema’s art and she really has some great stylings, designs, details and compositions. Her art along with Milgrom’s inking translates the story well enough even without the great writing from DeMatteis.

I really enjoy seeing Havok reminisce about Xavier’s dream but realizing that he can’t be a part of it any longer. Havok, the younger brother of Cyclops, has always been secondary and in the shadow of his big brother, X-Factor was a great series to really see him shine as a character and even more so as their leader. This page for me is a great character piece highlighting the constant inner struggle he faces. I am the youngest of 4 boys and know the struggle to compete with your older siblings for attention and finding your unique self out of their shadow.